Mechanical properties of heat-treated composite resin restorative materials

Clinical methods for heat treating composite resin restorations have been developed. In this investigation, the effect of heat treatments on the diametral tensile strength of composite resin was determined. The composite resin restorative materials were selected according to the manufacturers' suggested use for anterior or posterior teeth, filler particle composition, and light-cured or chemical polymerization. Samples were prepared according to American Dental Association specification No. 27, and heat treatments were accomplished with a Coltene DI 500 oven for curing at approximately 120 degrees C for 7 minutes. Heat treatment substantially increased the diametral tensile strength tested, with the exception of the anterior hybrid particle (p less than 0.05). Composite resins with fine-particle inorganic fillers were significantly stronger than hybrid and microfilled composite resins.